Rush wrote in the Telegraph: "There are challenges in moving abroad and it can take time to adjust, and I feel the ideal age to play overseas is when you are nearer 28. You can cope much better then.

"From a Welsh football point of view it would be great to see Gareth in Spain because it would show just how quickly he has developed and he will only get better. I don't think Tottenham would see it that way, though.

"You can understand the temptation for him, of course. When Real Madrid want to sign you it is an opportunity you have to consider. If the message comes to him Spurs are happy for him to discuss the move, that will be all the signal he needs to go."